The Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, Prof. Dr Slavica Djukic-Dejanovic, is currently in official visit to the Republic of Macedonia, at the invitation of Trajko Veljanovski, Sobranje Speaker.

As part of her visit to Skopje, the NARS Speaker was received by the President of the Republic of Macedonia Djordje Ivanov. The Speaker was pleased at the positive development of dialogue between Serbia and Macedonia, greatly aided by the two sides’ reciprocal visits. Declaring the bilateral cooperation excellent, particularly in the spheres of economy, defense and culture, both sides noted the need for the two countries to mutually cooperate in their EU accession process. Both asides noted that Serbia and Macedonia have far more things in common, than they disagree on. It is open and honest dialogue that creates the room and potential to find the solution to the open questions. “Like my colleague, Serbian President Boris Tadic, I agree with the position that we should open the borders between the countries of the region through dialogue and that mutual respect, understanding, application of European standards lead to regional stability and peace”, said Ivanov.

Having also met with representatives of the Serbian diaspora in Macedonia, in her meeting with Ivanov, Djukic-Dejanovic stressed the importance of the diaspora as a bridge of cooperation on all levels, as well as the diaspora’s need to enjoy all the rights granted to it by international treaties and Conventions. Thanking Macedonia for the efforts in that sphere, the Speaker emphasised that the study of the Serbian language is still not adequate.

The NARS Speaker stated that Serbia believes that the process of conservation of cultural and historical monuments should be accelerated, particularly in the case of Zebrnjak memorial, so that it could be restored by 2010, the 100^th anniversary of the Battle of Kumanovo. The Macedonian President informed the Serbian Parliament Speaker that the competent authorities in Macedonia have already taken specific steps and formulated proposals in that area. On Tuesday, 13 July, Serbian and Macedonian experts will meet on Zebrnjak to inspect the terrain and agree on further activities.

The negotiations on the opening of new border crossings for local traffic were also mentioned. In that respect, the only technically ready crossing is Goles – Golema Crcorija near Kriva Palanka, after the signing of the Cross-Border Transport Agreement, expected by the end of July. The opening of crossings Miratovac – Lojane and Trgoviste – Ogut will also be considered in the future.